Madison Bailey's Biography: Inside the Life of Outer Banks Star and LGBTQ+ Advocate (2025)

Madison Bailey is an American actress whose breakout role as Kiara Carrera in Netflix’s Outer Banks catapulted her into the spotlight. While her on-screen presence has earned her praise, it’s her openness about her identity and personal life that has made her a standout figure. Proudly identifying as pansexual, Bailey has embraced her truth with confidence, becoming a relatable and empowering voice for LGBTQ+ representation. Her relationship with basketball player Mariah Linney has further highlighted her journey of love and self-acceptance. Born in Kernersville, North Carolina, Bailey’s path to success is a story of resilience, authenticity, and breaking barriers — both in Hollywood and in her personal life. Her ability to connect with fans through her genuine personality has solidified her as one of the most inspiring young stars in the industry today.

Early Life and Adoption

Madison Bailey was born on January 29, 1999, in the small, quiet town of Kernersville, North Carolina. Adopted as an infant, Madison was raised by white parents and has openly shared her experiences growing up within a family of a different racial background. She candidly reflected on this unique aspect of her upbringing, stating,

“I was adopted into a white family. As a kid, you don’t realize that you’re riding on a privilege that doesn’t belong to you.”

Madison has spoken openly about her struggles with identity and belonging, highlighting the complexity of connecting with both her adoptive and biological cultures. Growing up as a mixed-race Black woman in a predominantly white community, she shared with Highsnobiety that she felt “pushed to become smaller or to fit in” at school, despite her self-expression being fully embraced at home.

Childhood, Family Support, and Influence

Throughout her journey, Madison’s parents encouraged her independence and self-expression. Reflecting on their influence in Highsnobiety, she remarked,

“I feel like my parents really just let me run wild with who I am, with what I want to do.”

This nurturing environment allowed Madison to embrace her individuality while navigating the challenges of her career and personal growth.

As the youngest of seven siblings, Madison’s childhood was dynamic and occasionally chaotic. Speaking to Rose and Ivy, she humorously described the household as “a little chaotic,” recalling how her mother would unexpectedly bring home new siblings without prior notice. Her mother attempted to streamline family activities to manage logistics efficiently, but Madison and her siblings each developed distinct interests. For instance, while her sister pursued gymnastics, Madison gravitated toward performing arts, a passion nurtured early on through informal performances for her family in their living room. She recalled to NFM magazine in April 2020,

“Being the youngest you grow up with that need for attention and I was the performer child. I would sing in front of my whole family in the living room.”

Madison fondly remembered engaging in creative activities as a child. In an interview with Allure in January 2025, she shared a vivid memory of her mother leaving her DIY kits when traveling with her sister for gymnastics competitions. Madison recalled,

“My mom would leave me with like some type of little DIY kit to keep me entertained with whatever older sibling was watching me.”

This memory underscores her early exposure to creative, hands-on activities, shaping her imaginative and expressive personality from a young age.

Her mother, who passed away in 2018, was a central figure in her life, shaping Madison’s creativity and strong sense of identity. Madison frequently honored her mother on social media, sharing heartfelt tributes that reflected their deep bond. On Mother’s Day in 2019, Madison described her mother as “my own personal angel,” writing, “I feel your love in every sunrise and sunset. I miss you.”

In 2020, she described her mother as “the sweetest woman to ever grace this earth” and recalled her as “a human being, a friend, and a wife.” Madison’s emotional reflections revealed the lasting impact her mother had on her life.

Her father, ALex Bailey, also provided significant emotional support, frequently visiting her on the set of “Outer Banks,” offering companionship and stability during demanding filming schedules. In December 2021, Madison gifted her father a Lexus as a Christmas present, expressing deep gratitude and describing him as someone who “deserves far more than any material item.” She humorously noted that the gift was also to make up for wrecking his previous car when she was younger.

Madison’s affection for her father was evident even before her rise to fame. In 2014, she shared a heartwarming Father’s Day tribute. Madison made a creative candy poster filled with playful puns using candy brands like “Whoppers,” “Butterfinger,” and “Twix” to craft a heartfelt message. This thoughtful gesture showcased her loving relationship with her father and her creative personality even as a teenager.

Madison’s older sister, Katie Bailey, contributed directly to her career by becoming her stunt double on “Outer Banks.” With her gymnastics background, Katie performed physically demanding stunts, including scuba diving scenes and intense action sequences, reinforcing the strong bond within the family. Katie, the sixth of the seven siblings, is five years older than Madison and celebrated her 29th birthday in July 2024. In addition to her stunt work, Katie had a remarkable gymnastics career, winning the NCAA Vault Championship in 2016 as part of the University of Alabama’s gymnastics team. This achievement was recognized on a public billboard in Tuscaloosa, celebrating her status as a champion and further highlighting her athletic success. Katie’s journey in gymnastics began years earlier, where she competed at the 2013 JO Nationals, showcasing her dedication and skill in the sport long before her NCAA victory.

Madison’s elder brother, Greg Bailey, is a father of two. While Greg maintains a relatively private life, Madison has spoken warmly about her bond with him, frequently sharing family memories on social media that highlight their close-knit connection.

Education and Initial Career Interests

Madison attended East Forsyth High School in Kernersville, where she began actively balancing academics with her burgeoning acting career. In an interview on Jared & Katie in the Morning – 1075 KZL (August 2021), she described herself as independent and somewhat isolated, stating,

“I think any person I went to high school with would attest that I was kind of in my own world like the whole time anyway.”

At school, Madison frequently requested assignments in advance due to her filming commitments.

Madison Bailey’s early exposure to modeling came as a result of her height, standing at 5’8″, which led her to sign with a modeling agency at around 14 or 15 years old. Initially, she had reservations about pursuing acting, largely due to a fear of being typecast in roles similar to those seen on Disney Channel. However, her perspective shifted during her freshman year when her friends encouraged her to participate in the school musical, The Pajama Game. That experience proved to be a turning point, steering her focus away from singing — her original passion — and solidifying her interest in acting.

Singing Passion and Stage Fright

Madison Bailey initially envisioned a career in music. Speaking on The Jennifer Hudson Show, she revealed,

“I’ve been singing since I could talk. For the longest, I thought that that’s what I was going to end up pursuing.”

However, her path shifted when significant stage fright began to affect her. Madison explained,

“I got stage fright as I started growing up and got into acting and felt comfortable that I could kind of let go of myself and play another character, be any version of myself.”

Acting ultimately became a way for Madison to overcome her performance anxiety, allowing her to express herself creatively. While her passion for singing transitioned from a professional ambition to a personal hobby, she eventually explored music, debuting her first single in 2024.

Breakthrough

Madison’s first significant acting opportunity arrived at age 15 when she secured a role in the television show “Constantine.” This role marked her breakthrough and came on her sixth audition, a significant moment that reinforced her dedication to the craft. Traveling from her hometown to Atlanta for filming provided her first exposure to the industry’s glamor. This initial foray into acting offered Madison a glimpse into the industry’s demanding nature, solidifying her commitment to pursuing an acting career.

Early Life Trivia

• Madison Bailey’s birth name is Madison Lilly Bailey.
• Madison Bailey was adopted as a baby and raised in a white family.
• As a child, Madison enjoyed performing for her family in their living room, often putting on impromptu shows to capture attention.
• Madison is the youngest of seven siblings, which influenced her desire to stand out and embrace her performer side.
• Madison Bailey initially pursued modeling before transitioning into acting.
• She was signed with a modeling agency that encouraged her to take acting classes.
• Madison attended East Forsyth High School in Kernersville, where she balanced her education with her acting career.
• Madison secured her first major acting role in Constantine, which came after her sixth audition overall, marking a key turning point in her career.

Early Television Roles

Bailey made her television debut in 2015 with a guest appearance in the supernatural drama series Constantine. In this episode, she played the role of Caroline, marking her entry into the entertainment industry.

Over the next few years, she continued to secure minor roles in various television series. In 2017, she appeared in an episode of Swamp Murders, a crime reenactment series, where she portrayed Mary Hold Bear.

In 2018, Bailey expanded her acting portfolio with a recurring role in the series Night Club Secrets. That same year, she appeared in Two Roads, a short film that added to her growing body of work.

Her acting career continued to build momentum in 2019 when she secured a recurring role as Wendy Hernandez in Black Lightning, a CW superhero series based on DC Comics. Her character, Wendy, was a metahuman with the ability to control wind, showcasing Bailey’s ability to take on diverse roles in the action and sci-fi genres.

Breakthrough with Outer Banks (2020)

In 2020, Madison Bailey achieved mainstream success with her role as Kiara “Kie” Carrera in Netflix’s hit series Outer Banks. The show’s first season premiered on April 15, 2020, introducing viewers to a gripping treasure hunt storyline centered around the “Pogues,” a tight-knit group of friends navigating social divides and personal struggles in North Carolina’s Outer Banks region. Bailey’s portrayal of Kiara, a loyal and free-spirited character who often challenged societal expectations, resonated with fans and earned her significant acclaim.

Interestingly, Madison initially auditioned for Outer Banks but didn’t hear back from casting directors. Later, when producers re-opened the role with a revised casting call, she auditioned again, delivering a performance that included improvisation and enhanced emotional depth. The show’s creators later expressed surprise at having overlooked her during the initial round, eventually declaring Madison as the perfect choice for Kiara.

In a June 2020 Talks at Google interview, Madison described her role as Kiara as transformative, explaining that the character’s carefree and defiant attitude encouraged her to adopt a more relaxed outlook on life. She further shared that Kiara’s ability to push against social expectations—“screw the rules, do what you feel connected to”—resonated deeply with her. Madison recalled her favorite scene to shoot was the “Midsummers” episode (Episode 5 of Season 1), which involved most of the cast and over 200 extras, creating a lively and memorable filming environment. Filming this scene presented challenges such as dealing with heat, bug spray, and sweat during long shooting days. Madison mentioned that her immediate post-shoot priority was showering before unwinding with the cast by playing Mario Kart.

Within a month of the show’s debut, Madison was already being widely recognized in public. This newfound attention followed her during travels to locations such as Los Angeles, Barbados, and Canada. Her Instagram following surged from 2,000 to over 3 million within a short period.

Physical Preparation and Stunt Work

Her role of Kiara required significant physical preparation, and Madison dedicated herself to intensive training for the action-packed series. She underwent two weeks of rigorous lessons, including:

• Surfing
• Swimming
• Boating (where she learned to drive a boat in just two weeks)
• Ukulele lessons, adding a unique skill to her repertoire.

Madison’s dedication to mastering these physical demands contributed to the show’s authenticity, particularly during scenes shot on location in outdoor environments.

During filming, Madison encountered wildlife such as alligators but remained composed, thanks to professionals on set handling the animals.

In a special twist, Madison’s sister served as her stunt double for the first two seasons of Outer Banks. The collaboration allowed Madison to work closely with her sister, enhancing her performance by following her sister’s guidance on executing stunts accurately. Her sister would often perform the stunts first and provide Madison with detailed instructions on positioning and movement to ensure continuity between scenes.

Outer Banks Season 2

In Outer Banks Season 2, which premiered on July 30, 2021, Madison returned alongside her co-star Madelyn Cline, who reprised her role as Sarah Cameron. The second season intensified the show’s action, drama, and character dynamics.

Madison’s character faced new challenges as the storyline intensified with heightened action, unexpected twists, and evolving relationships. While teasing Kiara’s romantic arc with Pope, Madison encouraged fans to “wait and see,” hinting that viewers would be satisfied with the season’s developments.

Beyond her on-screen presence, Madison Bailey is known for her vibrant personality and close bond with her castmates. According to her co-stars, Madison played a key role in the group’s behind-the-scenes fun, often credited as the “leader of all the tomfoolery.” Her infectious energy contributed to the cast’s tight-knit dynamic, both on and off camera.

Following the release of Season 2, Madison shared a heartfelt Instagram post on August 14, 2021, expressing her gratitude to fans for their overwhelming support. Standing beneath a billboard promoting Outer Banks Season 2, Madison wrote, “Mama can you see this from up there?? Words can’t express the gratitude I feel. I wanna thank the fans from the bottom of my heart for loving and vibing along to our art. Thank you thank you for streaming OBX2 🌈.”

Madison further engaged her fans by asking them to share their favorite quotes from Outer Banks Season 2. Fans eagerly responded with memorable lines such as “Stupid things have good outcomes all the time” by JJ, “Love is 5 minutes of pleasure for a lifetime of pain” by Pope, and the iconic “I claim thee, Poguelandia.” These quotes have since resonated with viewers, symbolizing the emotional and adventurous journey portrayed in the series.

In November 2022, Madison expressed her support for co-star Madelyn Cline’s role in Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery. Posting on Instagram, she celebrated her friend’s achievement, writing, “Had the pleasure of supporting miss @madelyncline on Monday night. Holy shit. We are all so proud of you Mads. We know how much you deserve it. This is truly just the beginning for you.” Madison attended the event wearing a light pink satin pantsuit, showcasing her elegant yet bold fashion sense.

Outer Banks Season 3

Madison Bailey returned as Kiara Carrera in Outer Banks Season 3, which premiered on February 23, 2023. Describing this season as her “wildest season yet,” Madison highlighted the heightened stakes, emotional depth, and unexpected twists that defined Kiara’s journey.

During the Season 3 premiere event, Madison shared her excitement, reflecting on the powerful connection with fans. She described Season 3 as wild “in every sense,” featuring intense adventures, heightened stakes, and moments where characters seemingly have “nothing to lose” yet still have much to fight for.

A significant storyline in Season 3 was Kiara’s evolving relationship with JJ, a fan-favorite pairing known as “Giara.” Reflecting on Kiara’s emotional arc, Madison described her character’s journey in three words: “Independence, maturing, and falling.”

Madison has openly discussed how her journey as a proud pansexual woman influences her portrayal of Kiara. While Outer Banks doesn’t include an explicit queer storyline for Kiara, Madison consciously infuses her character with subtle elements of queerness. She even snuck a pair of rainbow socks into a Season 3 episode as a small yet meaningful gesture.

Pushing Boundaries in Outer Banks Season 4

In Outer Banks Season 4, which premiered on October 9, 2024, Madison faced physically demanding challenges while portraying Kiara. Despite admitting that she’s not naturally inclined toward activities like swimming or hiking, Madison pushed herself during intense filming scenes. The scuba diving sequences, in particular, posed a significant challenge. Although her initial ocean training left her feeling uncertain, Madison remained determined. Her commitment paid off, and she expressed pride in overcoming those difficulties.

Her dedication continued beyond the screen. Madison attended the Outer Banks Season 4 premiere in Charleston, South Carolina, describing it as a heartfelt experience. Having her family present at the event made the night especially memorable, and she expressed gratitude for the support of fans and loved ones.

Further celebrating the show’s success, Madison participated in Poguelandia 2.0, an Outer Banks celebration event. She praised the event’s vibrant atmosphere, incredible performances, and curated menu. Reflecting on the evening, she enthusiastically shared her wish to relive the experience.

Other Acting Projects and Exploring a New Musical Path

Beyond Outer Banks, Bailey has diversified her acting portfolio. She appeared in American Horror Story, a prominent horror anthology series. Additionally, Bailey starred in the horror film Time Cut alongside Antonia Gentry from Ginny & Georgia, where the duo portrayed sisters. In Time Cut, Madison played a teen who, after being sent back to 2003 via a time machine, must find a way to stop her older sister’s murder. The film, known for its blend of suspense and emotional depth, premiered on October 30, 2024.

In addition to her acting career, Madison expanded her creative pursuits by venturing into music. On September 27, 2024, she released her debut single “The Grey,” sharing her excitement with fans on Instagram. Prior to the release, Madison shared her personal connection to the song, revealing that she had been singing to herself for 25 years and felt it was finally time to share her voice with the world.

In an October 2024 interview with Shine On Media, Madison revealed that “The Grey” was inspired by her desire to speak to her younger self. She explained that the song carries a heartfelt message of comfort and reassurance—something she wished she had heard as a child. Fans praised her emotional delivery and meaningful lyrics, with many expressing excitement for her budding musical journey.

Following the success of her debut, Madison released another single titled “Honestly” on December 6, 2024. She shared the news on Instagram, writing: “my new song ‘Honestly’ is out now 💌.” Fans and friends responded with enthusiasm, celebrating her vocal talent and continued growth as an artist.

Expanding into Fashion and Beauty

Beyond her acting career, Madison Bailey has made significant strides in the fashion industry. She became one of the faces of Fenty Beauty, Rihanna’s globally recognized makeup brand. Landing the role was a monumental achievement for Madison. When approached by Fenty Beauty, the team asked her if she was a fan of the brand and Rihanna — to which Madison enthusiastically confirmed her admiration.

While filming Outer Banks in Barbados, Madison received a surprise bouquet of flowers accompanied by a personal note from Rihanna welcoming her to the Fenty Beauty family — a memorable milestone in her career.

In addition to her Fenty Beauty collaboration, Madison partnered with Tommy Hilfiger as part of their #TommyFamily campaign. In November 2023, she shared her excitement about officially becoming a “Tommy Girl” in collaboration with Highsnobiety. Madison’s striking fashion-forward campaign featured bold colors and empowering visuals, amplifying her growing presence in the fashion industry.

Madison Bailey’s Print Appearances and Media Features

Madison Bailey’s influence extends beyond her on-screen performances, with notable appearances in prominent fashion magazines and media outlets showcasing her unique style, personality, and growing presence in the industry.

FASHION (Winter 2025)
Bailey appeared in FASHION’s Winter 2025 issue, striking a bold pose in an all-black, edgy ensemble. The issue celebrated statement jewelry and modern glam, reinforcing Madison’s role as a rising style icon.

Allure Next (January 2024)
Madison Bailey graced the cover of Allure Next, a series highlighting emerging talent. In her feature, Bailey opened up about her journey in both acting and music. She shared insights into her recording plans and how she maintained her signature curls. The interview also touched on her relationship, fragrance preferences, and her evolving creative pursuits.

Film Numéro (October 2024)
In her sophisticated feature for Film Numéro, Bailey posed elegantly in a black lace dress, showcasing her versatility as both a fashion model and performer. The feature underscored her growing presence in high-end fashion publications.

V Magazine (June 2023)
In celebration of Pride Month, Bailey appeared in V Magazine’s Pride Edition. The striking black-and-white shoot with rainbow accents symbolized her proud embrace of her identity and ongoing advocacy for LGBTQ+ representation.

Cosmopolitan (April 2023)
Madison Bailey landed the cover of Cosmopolitan’s Pride Issue in 2023. The feature highlighted her journey of self-discovery, her acting career, and her message of empowerment for those “figuring it out.” The playful yet empowering shoot cemented her presence in pop culture.

The Edit (April 2023)
Bailey appeared on the cover of The Edit’s Spring 2023 issue, embracing a carefree vibe as she posed on a breezy beach. Her joyful expression and relaxed aesthetic reflected her growing confidence as a public figure.

CMT Music Awards (April 2023)
Bailey made her debut as a presenter at the 2023 CMT Music Awards. She later expressed gratitude for the opportunity, describing the event as a memorable experience where she felt deeply connected to her Southern roots.

NYLON House at Coachella (April 2023)
In her first Coachella appearance, Bailey attended NYLON House, showcasing her effortless festival style with a crochet top and flowing skirt. Her relaxed yet chic look reflected her ability to effortlessly blend fashion with her personality.

Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam (August 2021)
Madison Bailey was featured in Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam, posing in a dreamy water-themed shoot that highlighted her natural beauty. The serene visuals emphasized her presence as a fashion-forward star blending elegance with artistic expression.

Flaunt Magazine (August 2021)
Bailey starred in a Flaunt Magazine editorial, where she showcased a powerful and confident style. The sleek and refined photoshoot solidified her as a standout figure in the fashion landscape.

StyleCaster (August 2021)
Bailey appeared in StyleCaster, where she spoke about embracing her individuality and navigating her journey as an actress. The close-up feature captured her authenticity and natural charm, resonating with fans.

Cosmopolitan (August 2021)
Bailey appeared in Cosmopolitan, described as a “wild child” for her energetic and carefree photoshoot. The feature celebrated her bold spirit and love for vibrant fashion.

Euphoria Magazine (July 2021)
In a memorable Euphoria Magazine digital cover shoot, Bailey exuded confidence in a sleek leather outfit. The shoot emphasized her commanding presence and ability to blend edginess with elegance.

Glamour (June 2021)
Bailey was featured on the cover of Glamour’s Beauty of Pride Issue, where she opened up about her journey as a pansexual individual. The feature celebrated her openness and dedication to advocating for inclusivity and representation.

From high-fashion covers to music award stages, Madison Bailey’s expanding presence in the media landscape highlights her growing influence as a multi-talented artist and style icon.

Madison Bailey’s Relationship with Mariah Linney: A Timeline of Love and Support

Madison Bailey first publicly revealed her relationship with Mariah Linney in June 2020 during Pride Month, also identifying herself as pansexual. Madison had previously been open about her sexuality privately, but her public announcement drew significant media attention. Following this, she received numerous messages from fans who felt inspired to embrace their sexuality or realized they identified as pansexual after learning more from Madison.

Madison and Mariah’s relationship began through social media when Madison saw Mariah on TikTok. Immediately attracted to her, Madison followed Mariah on Instagram and joined one of her live sessions. Their online interactions quickly transitioned to meeting in person when Madison learned that Mariah lived in Charleston, only 20 minutes away. Their first meeting occurred at Madison’s hotel, where they instantly connected. Madison soon felt confident enough to share their relationship openly, drawn to Mariah’s genuine nature, kindness, and passion for basketball and family.

Madison’s family has shown unwavering support for her relationship. In a candid June 2020, interview with ET Online, Madison shared that she nervously came out to her mother during an argument, saying, “You don’t even know anything about me! I’ve been dating a girl for a month!” Her mother humorously responded, “Fine. Madison, be gay! I don’t care,” while her father simply acknowledged, “I know.” This supportive family environment further encouraged Madison to openly embrace her relationship.

Throughout their relationship, Madison and Mariah have consistently demonstrated their affection on social media. Madison frequently expresses deep admiration for Mariah’s character, describing her as “soft-hearted,” “kind,” and “loving.” Their mutual understanding and communication have significantly strengthened their bond. Both Madison and Mariah prioritize listening to each other and expressing their feelings clearly, which has helped maintain their relationship’s stability.

Madison and Mariah celebrated several significant milestones on social media. On June 7, 2021, Madison shared their first-anniversary post captioned “365 with you.” On February 14, 2022, Madison shared a Valentine’s Day post captioned “V-day dump. Happy lover day best friend,” displaying affection for Mariah. Madison continued expressing her love through posts like the beach photo captioned “All I need,” on May 22, 2023, and a deeply heartfelt birthday tribute to Mariah on February 27, 2023, describing Mariah as “nothing but love and light” and someone who helps Madison find joy in small moments.

Their four-year anniversary on June 7, 2024, marked another significant milestone, celebrated publicly by Madison with elegant photos captioned “4 years of us.” On Mariah’s 25th birthday on February 26, 2024, Madison again shared loving sentiments, calling Mariah her “best friend, peace, and joy,” reaffirming their strong emotional bond.

Madison expressed during an Instagram Live on August 3, 2021, her enthusiastic hopes for the future of their relationship, mentioning marriage: “If I have anything to do about it, yeah.”

Their open and loving relationship continues to inspire fans, highlighted by mutual respect, honest communication, and unwavering support.

Madison Bailey: Navigating Identity, Authenticity, and Advocacy in the Spotlight

Madison Bailey, beloved star of Netflix’s hit series Outer Banks, has become a prominent voice for LGBTQ+ representation, authenticity, and mental health awareness through her candid conversations in various media outlets. Her openness in interviews with Glamour, PRIDE, Hi Anxiety, and the Gayety PRIDE podcast offers an inspiring look into her personal journey and the influence of her visibility on fans, particularly young people navigating their own identities.

Discovering Her Identity and Coming Out

Growing up in Kernersville, North Carolina, Madison described feeling isolated during her early teenage years due to limited LGBTQ+ visibility in her hometown. She began questioning her sexuality around age 15 or 16 but fully embraced her identity at 18. Initially identifying as bisexual for comfort, Madison ultimately found that pansexuality—attraction regardless of gender—aligned better with her emotional experiences, emphasizing connections based on deeper emotional compatibility rather than external characteristics.

Madison has shared that social media, especially TikTok, significantly influenced her public coming-out process. Although she had previously come out privately to her friends, it was her viral TikTok video that publicly declared her identity, expanding her influence and receiving widespread support from her growing fanbase. She saw social media as an effective way to openly share her identity with her audience, despite having been comfortably out privately beforehand.

However, Madison has also acknowledged the challenges accompanying social media exposure. Navigating the public sphere as an openly queer celebrity required thoughtful handling of online interactions. She has also noted that social media, while powerful for self-expression and community building, can be limiting when it comes to authentically conveying the full complexity of one’s identity.

Representation and Advocacy through “Outer Banks”

In her October 2024 interview on the Gayety PRIDE podcast, Madison discussed how her experiences as a queer woman influenced her portrayal of Kiara, her character in Outer Banks. She emphasized the parallels between Kiara’s fierce independence and her own, recognizing that many queer individuals develop a strong sense of self-reliance from navigating their identities from a young age. Madison expressed hope that LGBTQ+ viewers resonate with Kiara’s unapologetic spirit and use it as encouragement to embrace their own identities confidently.

Although Outer Banks does not currently feature explicit queer storylines, Madison actively seeks subtle opportunities to reflect her queerness through Kiara. She notably shared that she wore rainbow socks in a key episode as a subtle nod to the LGBTQ+ community. Madison also discussed the potential for Kiara to explore a queer storyline in future seasons, expressing her enthusiasm for such representation, which she believes could provide a unique and valuable narrative about exploring sexuality even within established relationships.

Mental Health Advocacy

Madison has been equally candid about her struggles with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and anxiety, sharing her experiences in the Hi Anxiety series in Sep 2020. She described her diagnosis of BPD as validating, helping her to better understand lifelong emotional struggles and anxiety triggers, such as relational changes and daily stressors. By openly discussing her mental health journey, Madison aims to destigmatize these conversations and support young people experiencing similar issues.

Embracing Authenticity

In her February 2023 interview with PRIDE, Madison expressed pride in being an LGBTQ+ role model beyond her on-screen presence. She stressed the importance of transparency, explaining her decision to publicly embrace her identity as a genuine reflection of herself rather than a calculated strategy. Madison found immense fulfillment in the positive reception from fans after sharing her relationship publicly, reinforcing her commitment to authenticity and the significance of representation.

Ultimately, Madison Bailey’s journey underscores the transformative power of self-acceptance, visibility, and advocacy. Her openness continues to inspire countless individuals, demonstrating that living authentically is both achievable and profoundly empowering.